Roback Morse: I don’t think in terms of optimism or pessimism. I think more in terms of theological hope. I try to cultivate the theological virtue of hope, of being hopeful that our Lord will use whatever’s happening for the greatest good. If we are thankful to him and we proclaim his truth in love, we hope he will somehow use that for good. I don’t know exactly how, or how long it’s going to take. [SOURCE]

Many Americans consider theological hope to be a lovely thing. However, it is not, cannot, and should not be the basis for our civil marriage policy. This is not a tough concept to understand.

If we would stop talking so childishly about faith and could instead be adult enough to note the crucial distinction between personal theology and shared policy, maybe we could actually come together with a common understanding rather than bully with (or be bullied by) immoveable convictions.